Some solace was provided by Montoya earning the first victory of his career and understandably, he was elated with his performance: "The whole team - WilliamsF1, BMW and Michelin - have done a fantastic job for me and I am so happy with the result," announced the victor. "I think this a great day for me, especially as my father is here and it is his birthday and it was also exactly a year ago that I had my last win in CART."
Rubens Barrichello was an impressive second for Ferrari and though early race-pace suggested a win might be on the cards, a problematic pit stop cost the Brazilian dear. "I am not sure what happened in the pits," declared Barrichello. "But it cost me a lot of time - enough to lose the race. But, all the same, we put on a good show. The Bridgestone tyres were great and the engine was very strong."
Feeling the pressure from the pace of Williams team mate Montoya, Ralf Schumacher crossed the line a distant third. The German's mind seemingly elsewhere all weekend, Ralf appeared uneasy, suggesting a fast get away from the Autodromo was near. "I did not find the best set-up for my car the whole weekend," he said. "But I would like to thank the team, being first and third here is a very strong effort. Because of the bad things that have happened I find it difficult to celebrate so hope everyone understands the reasons for my reaction to what is going on."
Clearly finding the task of driving difficult, Michael Schumacher was equally emotional and following his pre-race desire that for safety reasons, there should be no overtaking into the first two chicanes, the German was unable to settle into his usual format of disappearing into the distance and took 4th for Ferrari. "Luckily, everything went well and nothing happened," announced Michael. "I am just glad this weekend is over. It was a pity that Rubens was not able to win this race but overall, the most important thing is that nothing bad happened this afternoon."
